Nationwide consensus on quality indicators to assess glaucoma care: A modified Delphi approach

• Type: Article in International Scientific Journal
• Date: 2024

Authors

Iorio Aranha, F (Author) Other; de Freitas, C (Author) FMUP; Rocha-Sousa A (Author) FMUP; Azevedo, A (Author) Other; Barbosa Breda, J (Author) FMUP

Journal

Title: European Journal of Ophthalmology

Vol. 34

Pages: 217-225

ISSN: 1120-6721

Publisher: WICHTIG PUBLISHING

Indexing

ISI Web of Knowledge - 0 Citations

Scopus - 0 Citations

Other information

Authenticus ID: P-00Y-8QD

DOI: 10.1177/11206721231170033

Abstract (EN): Purpose Performance assessments are essential to tracking and improving quality in health care systems. Key aspects of the care process that act as indicators must be measured in order to gain an in-depth understanding of a care unit's operation. Without standardized quality indicators (QIs), it is difficult to characterize and compare the abilities of institutions to achieve excellence. The aim of this study is to reach a consensus among glaucoma specialists concerning the development of a set of QIs to assess the performance of glaucoma care units. Methods A two-round Delphi technique was performed among glaucoma specialists in Portugal, using a 7-point Likert scale. Fifty-three initial statements (comprising process, structure, and outcome indicators) were evaluated and participants had to agree on which ones would be part of the final set of QIs. Results By the end of both rounds, 28 glaucoma specialists reached consensus on 30/53 (57%) statements, including 19 (63%) process indicators (mainly relating to the proper implementation of complementary exams and the setting of follow-up intervals), 6 (20%) structure indicators, and 5 (17%) outcome indicators. Of the indicators that were part of the final list, functional and structural aspects of glaucoma progression and the availability of surgical/laser procedures were the most prevalent. Conclusions A set of 30 QIs for measuring the performance of glaucoma units was developed using a consensus methodology involving experts in the field. Their use as measurement standards would provide important information about unit operations and allow further implementation of quality improvements.

Language: English

Type (Professor's evaluation): Scientific

No. of pages: 9